In a powerful message marking the 54th UAE National Day, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasized that the national occasion continues to inspire Emirati generations to remain deeply committed to their values, principles, and national identity.

He recalled December 2, 1971, as a historic turning point when the UAE’s founding fathers created a unique and pioneering model of unity, marking the official birth of the United Arab Emirates and the beginning of an exceptional development journey shaped by ambition and determination.

Sheikh Mohammed extended his heartfelt congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and to the members of the Supreme Council, praying for continued security, stability, prosperity, and progress for the nation.

He paid tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and the other founding rulers, affirming that their wisdom, vision, and leadership remain a source of inspiration for every generation of Emiratis.

Highlighting the importance of youth, Sheikh Mohammed stressed that young Emiratis are the nation’s greatest asset and future hope. He praised their achievements in science, technology, and knowledge, and expressed confidence in their ability to adapt to global changes and utilize modern innovations for national progress.

He also pointed to the announcement of 2026 as the “Year of the Family,” reinforcing the importance of the Emirati family as a pillar of society and the first line of defense in preserving the country’s values, traditions, and national identity.

Sheikh Mohammed underlined the UAE’s remarkable advancement in global development and competitiveness indicators, noting the country’s position as the world’s largest humanitarian donor relative to national income - a testament to its deep-rooted humanitarian approach.

Addressing future transformations, he highlighted the UAE’s early leadership in artificial intelligence. In 2017, the UAE became the first country to launch a national AI strategy and appoint a dedicated AI minister, in addition to founding Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and integrating advanced technologies across government, education, and private sectors.

Concluding his message, Sheikh Mohammed expressed immense pride in the nation’s armed forces, security personnel, dedicated families, and talented youth leading in fields such as space science, nuclear energy, engineering, and medicine. He affirmed that past achievements form the foundation for greater milestones, guided by the UAE’s visionary leadership and the unwavering determination of its people.